U.S. patent application number 14/480148 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-12 for floor cleaning tool having a mechanically operated pump.
The applicant listed for this patent is Karcher North America, Inc.. Invention is credited to Adam Bearup, Daniel C. Venard.
Application Number | 20150040945 14/480148 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52447533 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150040945 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Venard; Daniel C. ; et
al. |
February 12, 2015 |
FLOOR CLEANING TOOL HAVING A MECHANICALLY OPERATED PUMP
Abstract
A compact machine for cleaning floors includes a solution tank
and dispensing system for dispensing solution onto the surface to
be cleaned, a deck assembly for guiding dirty solution to a
recovery pickup point, a mechanically operated pump for collecting
the dirty solution from the recovery pickup point, and a recovery
tank for receiving the collected fluid.
Inventors: |
Venard; Daniel C.;
(Centennial, CO) ; Bearup; Adam; (Lakewood,
CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Karcher North America, Inc. |
Englewood |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52447533 |
Appl. No.: |
14/480148 |
Filed: |
September 8, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13961673 |
Aug 7, 2013 |
|
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14480148 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
134/6 ; 15/121;
29/428; 29/525.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 11/4072 20130101;
A47L 5/28 20130101; A47L 9/1683 20130101; Y10T 29/49826 20150115;
A47L 11/04 20130101; A47L 7/0004 20130101; A47L 9/009 20130101;
Y10T 29/49947 20150115; A47L 9/0045 20130101; A47L 11/4088
20130101; A47L 11/4044 20130101; A47L 9/325 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/6 ; 15/121;
29/428; 29/525.01 |
International
Class: |
A47L 13/26 20060101
A47L013/26; A47L 13/11 20060101 A47L013/11; A47L 13/16 20060101
A47L013/16; A47L 13/12 20060101 A47L013/12 |
Claims
1. A portable, human-powered floor cleaning device comprising: a
chassis comprising a clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid
collection tank; a plurality of wheels for supporting and moving
the device; a mechanically-driven pump housed within the chassis
having an inlet and an outlet, the pump operably interconnected to
a drive wheel; the drive wheel provided substantially proximal to a
midpoint of the chassis and comprising an eccentric wheel hub
interconnected to a drive shaft such that a rotational movement of
the drive wheel results in a reciprocating movement of the drive
shaft and actuation of the pump; a deck assembly attached to the
chassis comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and at least one
squeegee, the fluid pick-up orifice being interconnected to the
pump by a conduit for transmitting the spent fluid from the fluid
pick-up orifice to the pump; and a scrubber pad attached to the
bottom side of the deck assembly, the scrubber pad having a
sawtooth leading front edge which helps trap debris and presses
tight against the floor surface and distributes the clean fluid
over the floor surface and loosens soil from the floor surface.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the scrubber pad further
comprises at least one ear that engages with an end of the at least
one squeegee, wherein the at least one ear helps to keep the spent
fluid from escaping from around the end of the at least one
squeegee and assists in cleaning baseboards of the floor
surface.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the scrubber pad further
comprises a plurality of diagonal slots defining void spaces which
help trap debris and help the scrubber pad to retain less clean
fluid and spent fluid, reducing dripping and drying time.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the scrubber pad further
comprises a curved edge that matches the curvature of the at least
one squeegee to create a snug fit of the scrubber pad with the
bottom side of the deck assembly.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the scrubber pad further
comprises a plurality of polyester fibers in a dense textured,
nonwoven pattern, bonded with a sturdy adhesive.
6. A motorless floor washing machine comprising: a chassis
comprising a clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid collection
tank; at least two wheels for supporting and moving the machine; a
trailing deck assembly comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and a
squeegee and a scrubber pad; a mechanically-driven pump housed
within the chassis having an inlet and an outlet, the pump operably
interconnected to a drive wheel, the drive wheel provided
substantially proximal to a lateral midpoint of the chassis and
comprising an eccentric wheel hub interconnected to a drive shaft
extending in a vertical direction such that a rotational movement
of the drive wheel results in a reciprocating movement of the shaft
and provides power to the pump; the fluid pick-up orifice being
interconnected to the pump by a conduit for transmitting fluid from
the fluid pick-up orifice to the pump; and a plurality of clips
secured to the bottom side of the trailing deck assembly, wherein
the plurality of clips apply force to keep the scrubber pad
conformed to the floor surface.
7. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 6, wherein each of
the plurality of clips have at least one prong that fits within at
least one slot in the trailing deck assembly.
8. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 7, wherein the at
least one prong further comprises a tab that engages with a flat
structure surrounding the at least one slot.
9. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 6, wherein each of
the plurality of clips further comprise a hook-type fastener
attached to a head of each of the plurality of clips, wherein the
hook-type fastener helps secure the scrubber pad to the bottom side
of the trailing deck assembly.
10. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 9, wherein each of
the plurality of clips further comprise a bar that fits within
openings in the bottom side of the trailing deck assembly enabling
each of the plurality of clips to rotate about the bar.
11. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 10, wherein each
of the plurality of clips further comprise a cantilevered spring
which applies pressure to a head of each of the plurality of clips
and applies the force to keep the scrubber pad conformed to the
floor surface.
12. The motorless floor washing machine of claim 6, wherein each of
the plurality of clips further comprise a plurality of tines that
help secure a dust strip to the scrubber pad.
13. A floor cleaning tool for cleaning a surface, comprising: a
chassis comprising a clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid
collection tank; a plurality of wheels for supporting and moving
the device; a mechanically-driven pump housed within the chassis
having an inlet and an outlet, the pump operably interconnected to
a drive wheel; the drive wheel provided substantially proximal to a
midpoint of the chassis and comprising an eccentric wheel hub
interconnected to a drive shaft such that a rotational movement of
the drive wheel results in a reciprocating movement of the drive
shaft and actuation of the pump; a deck assembly attached to the
chassis comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and at least one
squeegee, the fluid pick-up orifice being interconnected to the
pump by a conduit for transmitting the spent fluid from the fluid
pick-up orifice to the pump; a scrubber pad attached to the bottom
side of the deck assembly; and a dust strip attached to a portion
of the scrubber pad, wherein the dust strip captures dust and lint
and allows the floor cleaning tool to run longer before
cleaning.
14. The floor cleaning tool of claim 13, wherein the dust strip is
secured on a lower edge that is wrapped around a leading edge of
the scrubber pad, wherein the lower edge is engaged with a
plurality of tines located on a plurality of clips attached to the
bottom side of the deck assembly.
15. The floor cleaning tool of claim 13, wherein the dust strip is
nonwoven with coated fibers that grab dust and dirt and can be used
on both sides.
16. A method for attaching a dust strip to a floor cleaning tool,
the method comprising the steps of: (a) positioning a dust strip
along a length of a scrubber pad attached to the bottom side of the
floor cleaning tool; (b) wrapping a lower edge of the dust strip
around an edge of the scrubber pad along its length; and (c)
pressing the lower edge of the dust strip into a plurality of tines
facing towards a top side of the floor cleaning tool.
17. The method according to claim 16 further comprising the step
of: locating the plurality to tines on a plurality of clips, each
of the plurality of clips attached to the bottom side of the floor
cleaning tool, wherein the tines face towards the top side of the
floor cleaning tool.
18. A motorless floor washing machine comprising: a chassis
comprising a clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid collection
tank; at least two wheels for supporting and moving the machine; a
trailing deck assembly comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and a
squeegee and a scrubber pad; a mechanically-driven pump housed
within the chassis having an inlet and an outlet, the pump operably
interconnected to a drive wheel, the drive wheel provided
substantially proximal to a lateral midpoint of the chassis and
comprising an eccentric wheel hub interconnected to a drive shaft
extending in a vertical direction such that a rotational movement
of the drive wheel results in a reciprocating movement of the shaft
and provides power to the pump; the fluid pick-up orifice being
interconnected to the pump by a conduit for transmitting fluid from
the fluid pick-up orifice to the pump; and a toe lift indentation
located in the trailing portion of the trailing deck assembly,
wherein the toe lift indentation is designed to receive the toe
portion of a foot to momentarily lift the trailing deck assembly up
off of a floor surface to clear debris trapped between the squeegee
and the floor surface.
19. A method for clearing debris from a motorless floor washing
machine, the method comprising the steps of: (a) when streaking is
observed on a floor surface as the floor washing machine moves
along the floor surface, positioning a toe of a foot in a toe lift
indentation located in a trailing portion of a trailing deck
assembly; (b) raising the trailing deck assembly off of a floor
surface with the toe of the foot positioned in the toe lift
indentation to clear debris trapped between an edge of a squeegee
and the floor surface; and (c) removing the toe of the foot from
the toe lift indentation, allowing the trailing deck assembly to
fall back down onto the floor surface.
20. The method according to claim 19 further comprising the step
of: repeating steps (a), (b), and (c) until the streaking is
resolved.
Description
[0001] This Non-Provisional Patent Application claims the benefit
of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/680,635, filed Aug. 7, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/752,230, filed Jan. 14, 2013, the entire
disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their
entireties.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure is directed to floor cleaning tools
having a mechanically operated pump. Tools of the present invention
are capable of performing floor or surface cleaning functions,
including dispensing and recovering liquid from the floor or
surface.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Conventional tools for cleaning floors range from a mop and
bucket to pressure washers to automatic scrubbers. With the mop and
bucket, solution is added to the bucket and then a mop made out of
absorbent material is used to suck up the solution and then apply
it to the floor. The mop is then used as the abrasive tool to break
dirt loose from the floor. The dirt from the floor collects in the
mop which is then submersed in the solution in the bucket. Dirt is
rinsed from the mop by repeated dunking and wringing (usually with
a mop wringer).
[0004] This process is sub-optimal for a number of reasons. First,
dirt from the floor is returned to the bucket causing the solution
to become dirtier and dirtier such that an area cleaned towards the
end of the process is never as clean as the first area cleaned.
Some mop buckets exist today that have a solution tank and a rinse
tank which helps to keep the solution clean for a longer period of
time, but dirt is still carried into the solution tank by the
mop.
[0005] Secondly, absorbent mops required to lift solution out of
the bucket and onto the floor do not make very good scrubbers.
Ideally, an abrasive pad or bristle brush is used to break dirt
free, but they do not absorb water and cannot be used to get the
water from the bucket to the floor or dirty water from the floor
back to the bucket. Sponge and abrasive pad combinations that
accomplish both tasks are common for cleaning in a domestic
setting, but are rarely used in commercial environments since floor
coverage is too great and capacity to hold dirt is
insufficient.
[0006] Pressure washers utilizing high-pressure pumps rely on the
high-pressure discharge of cleaning solution as a means to break
dirt free. Pressure washers are available with vacuum capability to
recover the solution and the dirt as it is sprayed. These systems
use a significant amount of water and are expensive and more
difficult to use and maintain than the floor cleaning tool of the
present invention.
[0007] With automatic scrubbers, solution is dispensed to the
floor, scrub pads or brushes driven by motors break the dirt free,
and a vacuum and squeegee return the dirty solution to a separate
tank leaving the solution clean from start to finish. However, like
pressure washers, automatic scrubbers are significantly more
expensive and more difficult to operate and maintain. Additionally,
automatic scrubbers are hard to maneuver in tight places and are
incapable of cleaning under low profile objects (shelves, tables,
chairs, etc.). Some automatic scrubbers have wand accessories with
or without powered brushes for reaching in these tight spots, but
these generally suffer from sub-optimal performance as automatic
scrubbers are designed to clean large, unobstructed areas.
[0008] Both pressure washers and automatic scrubbers typically
include electrically powered pumps or vacuums for dispensing water
and/or cleaning solution and for collecting dirty water and/or
cleaning solution. Such electrically operated pumps and vacuums
increase the cost of these machines. Further, these machines
require an electrical power source, which increases the machines'
operating cost while limiting the machines' field of use (i.e. near
a electrical outlet) or duration of use (i.e. until the battery is
fully discharged).
SUMMARY
[0009] The present invention is a vast improvement over the mop and
bucket, yet is much less expensive than the pressure washer and
automatic scrubber. It is also easier to use and maintain.
Embodiments of the present disclosure comprise: (1) a solution tank
and a gravity-fed dispensing system to apply a solution to a
surface, (2) a deck assembly having an abrasive pad or brush for
scrubbing the surface being cleaned and a squeegee for collecting
used cleaning solution, and (3) a mechanically operated pump that
produces suction in a fluid communication path that terminates near
the squeegee to convey the dirty solution into a recovery tank.
Because neither the dispensing system nor the pump requires
electrical power, devices of the present disclosure are simple,
highly portable, cost effective, and easy to use and maintain.
Additional features include dispensation of solution, keeping clean
and dirty solutions separate, and collecting the dirty solution.
Variations on these and other aspects of the present disclosure are
described below.
[0010] In one embodiment, a portable, human-powered floor cleaning
device is provided, the device comprising a chassis comprising: a
clean fluid storage tank and a spent fluid collection tank; a
plurality of wheels for supporting and moving the device; a deck
assembly comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and a squeegee; a
mechanically-driven pump housed within the chassis having an inlet
and an outlet, the pump operably interconnected to a drive wheel
such that a rotational movement of the drive wheel results in
actuation of the pump; the fluid pick-up orifice being
interconnected to the pump by a conduit for transmitting fluid from
the fluid pick-up orifice to the pump; wherein conduit comprises at
least one valve for substantially preventing flow of a fluid in a
first direction; wherein the device is devoid of power generation
unit, such that translation of the device and actuation of the pump
are driven by a user imparting force to the device.
[0011] In one embodiments, a motorless floor washing machine is
provided, the machine comprising: a chassis comprising a clean
fluid storage tank and a spent fluid collection tank; at least two
wheels for supporting and moving the machine; a trailing deck
assembly comprising a fluid pick-up orifice and a squeegee; a
mechanically-driven pump housed within the chassis having an inlet
and an outlet, the pump operably interconnected to a drive wheel
via a shaft such that a rotational movement of the drive wheel
results in substantially vertical displacement of the shaft to
provide power to the pump; the fluid pick-up orifice being
interconnected to the pump by a conduit for transmitting fluid from
the fluid pick-up orifice to the pump; wherein the pump is
positioned above the pick-up orifice and the conduit comprises at
least one valve substantially preventing flow of a fluid in a
direction away from the pump.
[0012] In one embodiment, a floor cleaning tool for cleaning a
surface is provided, the floor cleaning tool comprising a chassis
comprising: a first tank for containing a cleaning solution, the
first tank having a discharge port positioned to effect dispensing
of the cleaning liquid therefrom; a second tank for receiving the
cleaning solution following its being dispensed to the surface; and
a mechanically-driven pump for removing the cleaning solution from
the surface and discharging the collected cleaning solution into
the second tank; a conduit for transmitting the cleaning solution
from a collection point to the second tank, the conduit comprising
at least one non-return valve for substantially preventing flow of
the fluid away from the second tank. A rotatable trailing deck
assembly is provided connected to the chassis and comprising a
squeegee, the deck assembly being selectively detachable from the
chassis. A main wheel assembly is provided comprising at least two
wheels for supporting and moving the chassis, at least one of the
wheels comprising a drive wheel with a rotational motion mechanism
for converting the rotational motion of the drive wheel into
reciprocal motion, and the drive wheel provided substantially
directly beneath the pump and operably connected to the pump by a
substantially vertical drive shaft.
[0013] It is an object of the present disclosure to describe an
efficient and yet economical scrubber which can be manually
operated. Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure
will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a review of
the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and
the accompanying drawings.
[0014] According to varying embodiments of the present disclosure,
a floor cleaning tool having a mechanically operated pump is
disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the
present disclosure and together with the general description given
above and the detailed description of the drawings given below,
serve to explain the principle of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor
cleaning tool according to the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a partial schematic view of an embodiment of a
floor cleaning tool according to the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of a
floor cleaning tool according to the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a feature of an
embodiment of a floor cleaning tool according to the present
disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 5 is phantom perspective view of an embodiment of a
floor cleaning tool according to the present disclosure; and
[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a component of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIGS. 7A-7C show several perspective views of the clips used
on the underside of the deck in an embodiment of a floor cleaning
tool according to the present disclosure.
[0023] FIGS. 8A-8G show several perspective views of the steps for
attaching the scrubber pad and dust strip to the underside of the
deck in an embodiment of a floor cleaning tool according to the
present disclosure.
[0024] FIGS. 9A-9B show perspective views of the toe lift feature
in an embodiment of a floor cleaning tool according to the present
disclosure.
[0025] It should be understood that the drawings are not
necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not
necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render
other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted from
these drawings. It should be understood, of course, that the
present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments
illustrated in the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] Varying embodiments of the present disclosure are described
herein with reference to the drawings. It is expressly understood
that although FIGS. 1-6 depict certain embodiments of a floor
cleaning tool, the present disclosure is not limited to those
specific disclosed embodiments.
[0027] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, there is provided a floor cleaning
tool 10 having a chassis 14 with main wheels 22 mounted on an axle
26 proximal a rearward portion of the tool 10. The chassis 14
comprises a deck 66 comprising cleaning and fluid collection
features as will be shown and described in more detail herein. In
some embodiments, the chassis 14 is rotationally molded from one of
a variety of plastic materials such as high density polyethylene.
The chassis 14 is provided with a cleaning solution tank which
extends from the back of the chassis 14 adjacent the main wheels 22
to the front of the chassis 14, and occupies the majority or all of
the lower portion of the chassis 14. The cleaning solution tank
holds cleaning solution 18, which may be any liquid useful for
cleaning, including water, soap, and/or cleaning chemicals. In
various embodiments of the present disclosure, the position, size,
and shape of cleaning solution tank 18 can be modified as desired
and/or convenient; neither the parameters nor the location of the
cleaning solution tank 18 is critical to the present
disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid application and recovery
system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and
shown in isolation with respect to certain additional features of
the present disclosure. As shown, a recovery pump 40 is provided
for translating fluids. The recovery pump 40 comprises a mechanical
pump driven by ground-induced rotational movement of a drive wheel
31. Additional wheels 30, 32 are provided for supporting the device
and/or providing rotational power to the drive wheel 31 and
associated pump 40. Accordingly, movement of the device along a
surface provides the power required to drive a pump 40 and draw
fluid from a ground or floor surface. The pressure differential
created by the pump 40 draws a fluid from the floor via recovery
line 52 which is operatively associated with a pick-up orifice 48
located proximal to the floor. Clean fluid 47 dispensed from the
device 10 contacts and cleans the floor as it is converted to dirty
fluid 44 and subsequently transported or picked up by the pump 40
and conveyed to a recovery tank 28 or similar receptacle.
[0029] In various embodiments, one or more conduits between a
pick-up orifice 48 and a recovery tank 28 are provided with means
for maintaining sufficient pressure and preventing back-flow in the
conduit(s). For example, in certain embodiments, one or more check
valves 42, 50 are provided for reducing or eliminating the risk of
back-flow or pressure loss in the line 52. Check valves preferably
comprise valve features permitting only unidirectional flow of the
fluid 44 (i.e. from the floor/orifice 48 to the recovery tank 44).
It will be recognized that where pump pressure is lost or where
fluid is allowed to drain downwardly in line 52, such as by the
force of gravity, pump 40 may become ineffective at removing fluid
44 as intended. It is also an object of the present invention to
prevent fluid disposed between inlet 48 and pump 40 to simply drain
out of the device when the tool is brought to rest. Accordingly,
the present invention contemplates providing at least one valve
feature for reducing or eliminating this risk. As shown, a first
valve 50 is provided proximal the inlet orifice 48. A second valve
42 is provided proximal to and downstream of the pump 40. In
various embodiments, valves 42, 50 comprise valves that allow for
fluid flow in one direction (i.e. toward the reservoir 28), and
substantially prevent back flow or fluid flow in a reverse
direction. Such valves may comprise check valves, non-return
valves, clapper valves, one-way valves or various other valve types
that provide the described function(s).
[0030] As shown in FIGS. 2-3, cleaning fluid is dispensed via clean
fluid conduit 47 preferrably directly in front of a squeegee and
within an area defined by the deck assembly 66. Dispensation of
fluid through the clean fluid conduit 47 is controlled or metered
by one or more control means 16 provided on or proximal the chassis
14. As will be recognized by one of skill in the art, devices 10 of
the present invention are useful for cleaning up spills and liquids
from external or pre-existing sources. Additoinaly, however,
devices 10 of the present invention comprise the ability to
dispense cleaning fluid(s) to a surface, perform cleaning functions
(e.g. scrubbing, wiping, etc.), and collect and store such fluids
after they have performed their intended function. Accordingly, the
present invention comprises a multi-purpose floor cleaning
device.
[0031] Referring now to FIG. 1, the cleaning device 10 comprises
various features for assisting in various cleaning tasks. For
example, the depicted embodiment of the cleaning device 10 is
provided with a storage unit 12. Storage unit 12 comprises a
selectively removable device provided with a handle 13 and one more
storage areas 15 for containing various products, including but not
limited to, cleaning products, tools, waste products, etc. In
certain embodiments, the storage unit 12 is provided as a
replacement to and in lieu of a spent fluid collection tank. For
example, and as shown in FIG. 1, the device 10 may be provided in a
state wherein the pump and the deck 66 are inactive, and the device
10 is essentially a caddy or cart. The deck 66 is shown in an
elevated position in FIG. 1, wherein it has been rotated upward and
out of contact with the floor or ground surface upon which the
device 10 rests. A user-operated control 16 is provided on an
exterior of the chassis 14 such that dispensation of cleaning fluid
can be selectively controlled. The control 16 is contemplated as
being any one or more of known devices useful for starting,
stopping, and/or metering flow of a fluid. The control 16 may, for
example, control a ball valve for initiating and terminating fluid
to be dispensed. The device 10 further comprises attachment
features, such as a shelf portion 17 for receiving and supporting a
mop, broom, or similar cleaning device.
[0032] A port 3 is provided on a portion of the chassis 14. The
port 3 may serve as a drain or input for fluid for one or both of
the clean fluid storage tank and the spent fluid storage tank. In
one embodiment, the port 3 comprises a simple drain for removing
unused clean fluid from the clean fluid storage tank, such as may
be desirable when the device 10 is to be stored or transported and
emptying of the device 10 is preferred.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 1, a user interface portion 2 comprises a
simply handle for grasping and maneuvering the device 10. The
interface portion 2 is rotatable and detachable at the locating of
fasteners 4. Fasteners 4 comprise, for example, simple threaded
fasteners.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, the chassis 14 further comprises
a recovery tank 46. Preferably, recovery tank 28 is removably
mounted on chassis 14 and is equipped with a handle to facilitate
removal of the recovery tank 28 from the chassis 14, i.e. when
disposing of the contents of recovery tank 28. The recovery tank 28
rests on top of solution tank 18. The upper portion of recovery
tank 28 has an inlet opening (not shown) through which dirty
cleaning solution is pumped into recovery tank 28 during operation
of floor cleaning tool 10.
[0035] To further simplify attachment and detachment of deck
assembly 66 to and from trailing arm 142, large, easily manipulated
squeegee mount knobs 92a, 92b are provided. Squeegee mount knobs
92a, 92b removably engage deck assembly 66. In some embodiments,
squeegee mount knobs 92a, 92b comprise threaded fasteners. In other
embodiments, squeegee mount knobs 92a, 92b comprise snap-in
fasteners or other known quick connect/disconnect fasteners.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a deck 66 according to
one embodiment. The chassis 14 is shown in phantom, such that the
drive wheel 31 and associated features are more visible. As shown,
the drive wheel 31 is provided in a recess 145 of the chassis such
that the drive wheel is bordered by the chassis on three sides. The
drive wheel 31 is thus accessible to user from a rear of the device
10 without needing to disassemble the chassis 14. Additionally, the
drive wheel 31 and associated components are protected by the
chassis on three sides, and increased storage volume for clean or
spent fluids or various additional are components is provided. In
certain embodiments, the axle 26 of the drive wheel 31 is provided
internal to the recess or void space 145 in the chassis 14. As
shown in further detail in FIG. 6, the axle 26 and wheel yoke 312
are driven by eccentric hubs 306 of the drive wheel 31, which drive
upwardly extending shaft 314 which is interconnected to the pump
unit. The positioning of the centrally located drive wheel 31 and
surrounding components and position of the chassis 14 provide for a
compact unit with a lower center of gravity than known devices,
while also providing for additional storage volume(s). The
placement of the drive wheel 31 is one aspect of the invention that
enables the device 10 to occupy a minimal amount of space while
providing its intended cleaning functions and advantages over the
prior art.
[0037] As shown, deck 66 is selectively connected to the chassis 14
via trailing arm 142, which may be bolted or similarly secured to
the chassis 14 via fasteners. A cut-out or recess 145 is provided
in the chassis, allowing user-access to, for example, the drive
wheel 31 as well as the connection points and fasteners 143 for
attaching and removing the deck 66. A tongue or extension 90
extends from the trailing arm 142. One or more pivot points may be
provided in the extension 90 to allow the deck 66 to rotate or
swivel.
[0038] As shown, a deck 66 is selectively interconnected to a
remainder of a floor cleaning device 10. The device 10 comprises an
aft extension 90 with slotted recesses for receiving and securing
fastening members 92a, 92b to secure the deck 66 to the aft
extension 90. In various embodiments, the deck 66 is pivotally
mounted on the extension 90 and/or the extension 90 is pivotally
provided on the chassis 14 of the device 10. Thus, in at least some
embodiments, the deck 66 is at least one of removable from a
remainder of the device 10 and rotatable to a position wherein the
deck 66 is not in contact with a floor or ground surface.
[0039] A dispensing outlet (not shown) is located at a low point of
the solution tank 18--preferably at the lowest point of
gravitational potential energy of the solution tank 18. The
dispensing outlet is detachably connected and in fluid
communication with solution inlet plumbing 34. Cleaning solution in
the solution distribution trough 18 is released directly onto the
floor in some embodiments, or onto a floor pad 62 of deck assembly
66 in other embodiments, including the one shown in FIG. 4. Floor
pad 62 is preferably an abrasive pad or brush. In certain
embodiments, cleaning solution is not pumped out of solution tank
18, but rather flows out of solution tank 18 due to gravity. In
some embodiments, a dispensing valve located in the dispensing
outlet or elsewhere in the cleaning solution flow path is used to
start and stop the flow of cleaning solution out of solution tank
18.
[0040] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a deck 66 according
to one embodiment of the present invention. The deck 66, which may
be provided in combination with various embodiments and features
provided herein, comprises a debris pad 62. A squeegee 70 is
provided on a lower portion of the deck 66, the squeegee comprises
a trailing portion to clear any debris and/or water not picked up
by additional system components. One or more quick release latches
are provided for ease of removal and application of squeegee blade
70. In certain embodiments, one or more articulating debris pads
are provided, the articulating debris pads being provided for
additional cleaning. In the depicted embodiments, a single debris
pad 62 is provided, the debris pad comprising various sections
forming a lattice-type structure with one or more void spaces 63
provided therein. A pickup valve assembly 68 comprising a pick-up
orifice is provided on a lower portion of the deck 66 and proximal
a rear portion thereof. In various embodiments, the assembly 68 is
provided sufficiently proximate to a ground surface such that the
pump force is capable of removing fluid(s) from the ground surface
through, for example, a vacuum force applied by a pump. One or more
check valves, as previously described, may be provided in
combination with the assembly 68 to prevent back-flow of fluid,
particularly when the device 10 is brought to rest and/or the pump
is not active.
[0041] Embodiments of the present invention contemplate an assembly
68 comprising an aperture provided with a filter or similar device
to enable fluid transport through the aperture to prevent
large-scale particles and debris from becoming drawn into the
device. In various embodiments, the assembly 68 is provided such
that the planar area of the orifice is substantially parallel to a
floor or ground surface being cleaned. The planar entrance area of
the orifice is provided between approximately 0.01 inches and 4.00
inches above a ground surface. Preferably, the planar entrance area
of the orifice is provided between approximately 0.05 and 0.075
inches above a ground surface.
[0042] Referring now to FIG. 4, deck assembly 66 is supported on a
pair of wheels 94 which, in some embodiments, may be raised or
lowered by a lift mechanism of one of several types well known in
the art. The deck assembly 66 supports squeegee blade 70, which
contacts the floor or surface being cleaned. In some embodiments,
two or more squeegee blades may be attached to deck assembly 66.
Pickup valve assembly 68 is positioned in the center and towards
the rear of deck assembly 66, and comprises an orifice as a fluid
pickup point located adjacent the floor immediately in front of
squeegee blade 70. In embodiments having two or more squeegee
blades attached to deck assembly 66, the recovery pickup point may
be located between two squeegee blades for improved suction.
[0043] In certain embodiments, the deck assembly 66 comprises
quick-connect features for one or more pads 62. Pads 62 of the
present invention comprise, for example, commercially available
3M.RTM. Easy Trap Duster pads, for securing to a lower region of
the deck assembly 66. Quick connect features provided on the lower
surface of the deck assembly 66 include, but are not limited to,
hook and loop pads, clips, and various fasteners useful for
securing a cleaning pad 62 to the assembly 66.
[0044] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a floor cleaning device 10
of one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the device 10
comprises control means 2, such as a handle, in operable
communications with a chassis 14. The chassis 14 is provided on
wheels 30a, 30b. A recovery deck 66 is provided as a trailing
member and in fluid communication with a pump drive assembly
internal to the device 10. A recovery bucket 28 comprises a basin
to collect and store dirty liquids recovered from a floor or
surface by the pump. The recovery bucket 28 comprises a removable
feature such that it may be manually lifted and removed from the
chassis 14 for emptying, cleaning, replacement, etc. In certain
embodiments, the recovery bucket 28 comprises mop tray or wringer
74. The mop wringer 74 is provided for use with a mop 76, which is
selectively securable to the chassis 14 in the embodiment of FIG.
5. Mops and similar devices are contemplated fur use in cleaning
operations, and may be particularly useful for cleaning surface and
locations that the device 10 may not be able to access (e.g.
corners and areas underneath certain objects). The upper portion of
the recovery bucket 28 comprises tray and/or wringer features for
receiving a mop head and further allowing contents to drain into
the recovery bucket 28. In the depicted embodiment, the recovery
bucket 28 is provided in a central void 70 of the chassis 14.
Various embodiments of the present invention contemplate providing
such a chassis 14 with an interior portion 70 that is void or
partially void so as to accommodate various devices and features,
including recovery bucket 28 and/or storage unit 12 (see FIG.
1).
[0045] As shown, the device 10 is capable of receiving a known or
preexisting mop device 72 on a chassis 14. The device 72 comprises
receiving means, such as indentations, troughs, clips, etc. for
receiving a mop. Such features are provided in addition to or in
lieu of fluid dispensing means shown and described herein. In one
embodiment, a mop is provided for additional cleaning functionality
and is useful in, for example, situations where the device 10 may
have missed portions of a floor to be cleaned and spot cleaning
with the mop is desirable. Additionally, a wringer or mop tray 72
is provided for supplying the mop with fluid and/or cleaning the
mop after and during use.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, a feature of the present invention
comprises a novel attachment member 100. Attachment member 100 is
capable of at least two modes of use. A first mode is provided
wherein a cylindrical portion of the attachment member is disposed
in a recess and a hook portion extends outwardly therefrom. In this
first mode, various features such as a "wet floor" sign 78 may be
hung from the attachment member 100. In a second mode, the
attachment member 100 is attached to an additional device, such as
mop 76. The cylindrical portion of the attachment member 100
comprises a removable clip that can be selectively secured to
various features, such as the elongate shaft of a mop 76. Once
secured, the hook portion extends outwardly therefrom and may be
placed or inserted into the chassis 14, such that the mop 76 is
supported thereon. It will be recognized, therefore, that the
attachment member 100 comprises a single device that is capable of
two different modes of use for storage and/or transport of
articles.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 6, a mechanically driven pump 300
according to one embodiment is provided in fluid communication with
the recovery tank (not shown). In the depicted embodiment, the pump
300 is a diaphragm pump, but in other embodiments other types of
pumps, such as piston pumps or centrifugal pumps, are provided. A
pump housing 302 is provided, the pump within the housing 302 being
driven by a drive wheel 31 provided in rolling contact with a floor
surface. The drive wheel 31 comprises eccentric wheel hubs 306 with
an axle 26 supported on a frame or chassis. The hubs 306 are
connected to a wheel yoke 312, which is connected to a pump yoke
308 via a shaft 314. The pump is actuated by movement of the wheel
31 and associated eccentric hubs 306, which induces a reciprocating
vertical movement of a cross-bar 316 which provides power to the
pump. Vertical movement of the guide bar 316 is assisted by
vertical guide slots 310 extending upwardly from the pump housing
302. One or more coil springs 304 are provided on the pump yoke 308
to bias the pump and associated components.
[0048] Floor cleaning tools of the present invention are primarily
intended to deliver and collect a controlled volume of cleaning
solution from the floor during normal floor cleaning operations,
and persons of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that pumps
and recovery tanks should be sized appropriately. However, other
uses of floor cleaning tools will be readily apparent to persons of
skill in the art. For example, floor cleaning tools of the present
invention may be used to collect puddles and spills. To ensure that
floor cleaning tools are useful for such applications, pumps and
recovery tanks preferably have excess capacity, so that they can
collect a greater volume of liquid, at a higher rate, than is
required for normal floor cleaning operations.
[0049] In some embodiments, a cleaning solution tank is positioned
above the pump and/or recovery tank, thereby raising the lowest
point of the solution tank and enhancing the gravity-powered flow
of cleaning solution from the cleaning solution tank. Other
arrangements are possible. For example, in some embodiments,
cleaning solution tank and recovery tank occupy horizontally
adjacent positions; i.e., cleaning solution tank may be located
forward of recovery tank on chassis, or cleaning solution tank may
be located to one side of recovery tank on chassis. This
facilitates access to both tanks, and reduces the overall height of
floor cleaning tool. Removal of tanks for replacement, cleaning,
emptying, and/or refilling are also simplified in such
embodiments.
[0050] In various embodiments of the present invention, the sizes
of cleaning solution tank, recovery tank, pump, and squeegee are
selected based on the target market for the floor cleaning tool.
For example, floor cleaning tools intended to be used commercially
preferably comprise larger components than floor cleaning tools
intended for household use, as commercial applications are likely
to have significantly greater surface area to clean.
[0051] FIGS. 7A-7C show several perspective views of the clips used
on the bottom side of the deck in an embodiment of a floor cleaning
tool according to the present disclosure. Referring now to FIGS.
7A, 7B, and 7C, a plurality of clips 700 are secured to the bottom
of deck 66 (see FIG. 8A). The clips 700 apply force to help keep
floor pad 62 conformed to the floor surface. The clips 700 also
have a strip 702, typically a hook-type fastener such as
VELCRO.RTM., attached to the head 703 of clip 700 that help secure
floor pad 62 in place on the bottom side of deck 66. Prongs 704 fit
within slots in deck 66, and tabs 706 engage with the flat
structure surrounding the slots to keep the clips 700 attached to
the bottom side of deck 66. The two ends of bar 708 fit within
openings on the bottom of deck 66 and allow the clips 700 to rotate
slightly about centerline 710. Prongs 704 are free to move slightly
up-and-down within the slots in the deck 66 as rotation occurs. The
rotation is caused by cantilevered spring 712, which applies
pressure to head 703 as floor pad 62 moves over the floor surface.
The clips 700 also have one or more tines 714 that help secure a
dust strip (see FIG. 8D) to floor pad 62.
[0052] FIGS. 8A-8G show several perspective views of the steps for
attaching the scrubber pad and dust strip to the bottom side of the
deck in an embodiment of a floor cleaning tool according to the
present disclosure. Referring now to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F,
and 8G, in FIG. 8A the plurality of clips 700 can be seen attached
to the bottom side of deck 66. Floor pad 800 is shown in FIG. 8B
prior to being attached to deck 66. Floor pad 800 is of a different
but similar design to that shown in FIG. 4. In one embodiment,
floor pad 800 is commercially available from Americo Manufacturing
Company, Inc. and is made of polyester fibers in a dense textured,
nonwoven pattern, bonded with a sturdy adhesive. Floor pad 800
helps distribute cleaning solution over the width of the squeegee
blade 70. Floor pad 800 also reduces the amount of debris getting
to the squeegee blade 70 which can cause streaks. Floor pad 800
also reduces the amount of debris getting to the pump pickup point
which can cause clogs. The wiping action provided by floor pad 800
helps loosen soil from the floor. The diagonal slots define void
spaces 803 and provide more edges for debris to get trapped and
removes material so that the floor pad 800 retains less water to
reduce dripping and dry time. Sawtooth edge 805 also helps to trap
debris better than a straight edge and helps the leading front edge
press tighter to the floor than a straight edge. Floor pad 800 also
has ears 807 at either end of sawtooth edge 805. Ears 807 help
control the working solution puddle so that it does not escape from
the ends during turns of floor cleaning tool 10. Ears 807 also help
provide base board cleaning.
[0053] FIG. 8C shows floor pad 800 positioned in the bottom side of
deck 66. Curved edge 809 matches the curvature of the squeegee
blade 70 and deck 66, and the ears 807 engage with the ends of the
squeegee blade 70. The ears 807 help to keep fluid from escaping
from around the ends of squeegee blade 70. The snug fit of floor
pad 800 within the structure of the bottom side of deck 66 helps to
keep floor pad 800 securely in place.
[0054] FIG. 8D shows a dust strip 811. Dust Strip 811 in one
embodiment is the commercially available 3M.RTM. Easy Trap Bulk
Roll that comes in various widths and lengths and thickness and is
nonwoven with coated fibers that grab dust and dirt and can be used
on both sides. A section of dust strip 811 is cut from the bulk
roll slightly longer than the length of the sawtooth edge 805. With
the deck 66 in the vertical position as shown in FIG. 8E, dust
strip 811 is positioned along the lower portion of floor pad 800,
with lower edge 813 of dust strip 811 hanging down. FIG. 8F shows
lower edge 813 wrapped around sawtooth edge 805 of floor pad 800.
Finally, in FIG. 8G, lower edge 813 is wrapped further and pressed
down to engage with tines 714 of the clips 700 which face towards
the top side of the deck 66. The tines 714 are covered up by lower
edge 813 and are thus not visible in this view. The dust strip 811
captures dust and lint and allows the floor cleaning tool 10 to run
longer before cleaning. The dust strip 811 can be easily removed
and discarded along with the debris it has trapped and extends the
life of the floor pad 800 by keeping it cleaner.
[0055] FIGS. 9A-9B show perspective views of the toe lift feature
in an embodiment of a floor cleaning tool according to the present
disclosure. Referring now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, toe lift indentation
902 is located in the trailing portion of deck 66. As floor
cleaning tool 10 is in operation, debris sometimes builds up on the
edge of squeegee blade 70 and can cause streaks when a piece of
debris keeps the squeegee blade 70 from direct contact with the
surface of the floor being scrubbed or cleaned. The user can use
the toe portion 904 of their foot 906 to momentarily lift deck 66
off of the floor and give the piece of debris an opportunity to
pass, and then let deck 66 fall back down to the floor, hopefully
dislodging the piece of debris, if it did not pass, that was caught
between the bottom edge of squeegee blade 70 and the surface of the
floor that was causing the streak. This process can be repeated one
or more times until the debris causing the streaking is
dislodged.
[0056] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have
been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and
alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the
art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such
modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of
the present disclosure, as set forth in the following claims.
Further, the invention(s) described herein are capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the
phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of
description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of
"including," "comprising," or "adding" and variations thereof
herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and
equivalents thereof, as well as additional items.
* * * * *